More than a dozen people have been injured after a train collided with an agricultural trailer at a level crossing between Ludlow and Leominster, prompting a large-scale emergency response and the arrest of a man.
Collision Involving TfW Service
The incident occurred shortly after 10:40am when the 8:30am Transport for Wales (TfW) service from Manchester Piccadilly to Cardiff Central struck a trailer at a user-operated level crossing near Nordan Farm, north of Leominster.
According to British Transport Police (BTP), the collision resulted in multiple injuries among passengers on board the train.
Casualties and Emergency Response
- One male passenger was airlifted to Hereford County Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
- A female passenger was also taken to hospital by land ambulance.
- 15 others were assessed on site by West Midlands Ambulance Service and discharged.
No one from the tractor-trailer required medical treatment.
Arrest Made
A 32-year-old man from Bromyard has been arrested on suspicion of endangering safety on the railway. He remains in custody as investigations continue.
Travel Disruption and Line Closures
All rail services are currently suspended between Hereford and Craven Arms, and TfW has confirmed that disruption will last until the end of the day.
Replacement road transport is being arranged, and TfW tickets are being accepted by Northern, Avanti, GWR and CrossCountry.
RAIB Launches Preliminary Investigation
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has deployed inspectors to the scene to determine whether a full investigation is warranted. The crossing involved is believed to be a user-worked level crossing, which requires the operator to manually activate gates or barriers.
Official Statements
A TfW spokesperson said:
“We can confirm that our 8.30am service between Manchester Piccadilly and Cardiff Central struck an obstruction at a crossing near Leominster. We are working with emergency services and appreciate passengers’ patience.”
A BTP spokesperson added:
“Enquiries are ongoing into the full circumstances of the incident.”
What Passengers Should Do
- Check your journey status before travelling on Thursday evening.
- Allow extra time and consider alternative travel options.
